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Former U.S. President Donald Trump sharply criticised Western nations during his address at the UN General Assembly (UNGA 2025) on Tuesday, condemning their recent decisions to grant Palestine recognition. He argued that acknowledging a Palestinian state at this stage amounted to offering a “reward to Hamas” after the October 7 attacks on Israel.
In his UN speech, Trump argued that recognising a Palestinian state undermines global security and hurts Israel during the ongoing Israel–Gaza war.
“By recognising Palestine now, these countries are sending the wrong message that violence pays,” Trump said. He named France, the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal among those he accused of betraying Israel. He also reiterated the traditional U.S. foreign policy stance that a two-state solution should only be achieved through direct negotiations.
Over the past week, several major Western nations officially recognised Palestine. The announcements came during heavy fighting in Gaza and amid an ongoing hostage crisis.
Supporters, including leaders in Paris and London, said recognition gives legitimacy to the Palestinian Authority and could revive stalled peace efforts. Critics argue it strengthens Hamas and weakens Israel.
However, critics, including Trump and Israeli officials, argue that the timing risks encouraging Hamas and undermining Israel’s security.
The decision has sparked strong reactions. French President Emmanuel Macron, seated next to Trump during the UNGA session, defended his country’s stance.
“Recognising Palestine does not mean ignoring the Hamas attack,” Macron said, emphasising that France sees the move as a step toward peace.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the recognition an “absurd prize for terrorism.” Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority hailed the recognition as a long-overdue step. Officials in Ramallah said the move helps legitimise their claim to statehood, even if it does not immediately change conditions on the ground.
The recognition move has been welcomed in the Muslim world, including by Pakistan, Turkey, and Qatar. Analysts say it may influence future UN votes on the Middle East.
Still, many experts caution that the move is symbolic and does not alter the existing facts on the ground. The fighting in Gaza and the unresolved hostage crisis continue to block progress toward peace.
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